The harsh Michigan winters can take a toll on your home’s exterior. From frozen pipes to cracked sidewalks, there are a number of ways your home can suffer during the cold months. One way to combat the wear and tear of winter is to properly maintain your vinyl siding in Ann Arbor Michigan. Here are 8 tips to help you keep your vinyl siding in top condition all year long.
Taking Care Of Your Vinyl Siding Is Important
It is important to regularly inspect and clean your vinyl siding in order to keep it in top condition. Vinyl siding is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable, low maintenance, and easy to clean. However, vinyl siding can become damaged over time if it is not properly maintained. In order to keep your vinyl siding in top condition, it is important to regularly cleaning it and inspecting it for damage. Additionally, you should repaint or restain your vinyl siding every few years to protect it from the sun and weather damage.
1. Inspect your siding regularly.
The best way to catch problems early is to inspect your vinyl siding regularly. Once a month, walk around your home and look for any cracks, holes, or other damage. If you find any damage, have it repaired by a professional immediately to prevent further issues.
2. Clean your siding frequently.
Vinyl siding can collect dirt, dust, and pollen over time. To keep it looking its best, wash it down with a hose or power washer at least once a month. For tougher stains, you can use a mild soap and scrub brush. Be sure to rinse off any soap residue afterwards.
3. Repair any damage immediately.
If you do find any damage to your siding, don’t wait to repair it. Small cracks and holes can quickly turn into big problems if they’re not fixed right away. You can usually repair small problems yourself with a little vinyl patching compound and some elbow grease. However, this can get dangerous and expensive if you make a mistake, so you may need to hire a professional roofing contractor instead.
4. Invest in quality vinyl siding.
When it comes time to replace your old siding, be sure to invest in quality vinyl siding from a reputable manufacturer. Cheaper brands may seem like a good deal at first, but they’re more likely to fade, crack, and chip over time. Spending a little extra now will save you money in the long run.
5. Avoid using harsh chemicals on your siding.
Harsh chemicals can damage the finish on your vinyl siding and shorten its lifespan. When cleaning your siding, stick to mild soaps and detergents that won’t harm the material. If you must use a stronger cleaner, be sure to rinse it off completely afterwards.
6. Don’t pressure wash your siding.
Power washing may seem like an easy way to clean your vinyl siding, but it can actually cause more harm than good. The high-powered water stream can strip away the protective coating on your siding, leaving it vulnerable to dirt, UV rays, and other contaminants. If you must pressure wash, be sure to use the lowest setting possible and hold the wand at least 12 inches away from the surface of the siding.
7. Trim back any bushes or trees near your siding.
Overhanging branches and bushes can scratch or dent your vinyl siding, so it’s important to trim them back on a regular basis. Once every few months, walk around your property and trim back any branches or bushes that are within 12 inches of your home’s exterior. This will help keep your siding looking like new for years to come.
8. Hire a professional contractor for difficult jobs.
There are some maintenance tasks that are best left to the professionals. These include painting, staining, waterproofing, and cleaning tough stains.
If you’re not comfortable taking on these tasks yourself, be sure to hire a reputable contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan who has experience working with vinyl siding. following these simple tips will help you keep your vinyl siding looking like new for years to come! following these simple tips will help you keep yon top of things so that much repairs won’t be needed down the road!
